Posted by Tolomatic on March 20, 2018

Hush! Minimizing noise in electric linear motion systems

Under most circumstances electric linear motion systems are quiet.  They certainly don’t create the hissing and bang-bang noises associated with pneumatic systems. However, there’s another type of noise that comes with electric systems of all types – electrical noise or interference.

This is a common occurrence caused by random fluctuations in electrical signals. If the amplitude gets high enough, electrical noise can disrupt the operation of devices like electric linear actuators.  The results can be anything from erratic movements to complete system failure.

Posted by Tolomatic on March 8, 2018

Electric servo actuators and welding robots build better autos faster

Robots are well-suited to high-volume processes like welding auto bodies because they can work quickly and consistently. Using electric servo actuators makes faster speeds and consistent weld quality possible while reducing costs.

Posted by Tolomatic on February 20, 2018

Electric linear motion. Selecting linear actuators.

Linear actuators are familiar components in many factory automation systems. They’re one of the usual suspects in any line-up of linear motion components.

There’s a lot riding on specifying the right linear actuator for the task. Choose well and it’s smooth sailing. The actuator performs without a glitch for a long time. Choose the wrong one, and it’s a bumpy ride. You can wind up with break-downs and poor product quality.

 

Posted by Tolomatic on February 6, 2018

Motor selection for electric linear motion. Stepper vs servo

An electric linear motion system needs a motor. Unlike pneumatic cylinders that are powered by a central air compressor, electric linear actuators are powered by electric motors. The mechanisms in the actuator convert the motor’s rotary motion into linear motion. Machine designers can choose either servo or stepper motors for their electric linear actuator applications.

Posted by Tolomatic on January 23, 2018

Selecting a choke valve operator for MPD. What’s best?

As oil and gas drilling environments grow more challenging, the need for the enhanced control provided by managed pressure drilling (MPD) grows too.  The drilling choke valve is an essential component in an MPD system, and the drilling choke valve operator (choke valve actuator) provides the vital element of control.  It’s the valve operator that communicates the control software’s commands and provides position feedback to the control system. It stands to reason that selecting the best valve operator is critical to the success of an MPD system. 

Posted by Tolomatic on January 9, 2018

Selection tips: rodless electromechanical & electric rod actuators

When you specify a linear actuator, some basic decisions come first. Like electric or fluid-powered?Like do you need the push/pull of an electric rod actuator or the load-carrying action of a rodless electromechanical actuator?

We’ve compiled tips for selecting these actuator types.  Here’s an opportunity to increase your knowledge of electric linear motion.

Posted by Tolomatic on December 12, 2017

The great debate: Electric linear actuators vs. pneumatic

There’s a new debate in motion among machine designers. What’s best? Pneumatic or electric linear actuators? The truth is it depends on the application. What follows is an honest comparison of linear actuator choices – an assessment of strengths and weaknesses – so you can choose what’s best for your project.

Posted by Tolomatic on November 28, 2017

Extreme force electric linear actuator controls lumber drying

The lumber processing industry demands rugged, strong, reliable and accurate equipment in all its operations. Machine designers who serve this industry need extreme force linear actuators to move heavy loads.  Hydraulic cylinders have been the go-to, but they have limitations, such as poor control, leaks, temperature sensitivity, maintenance requirements and lack of feedback. Now there are electric rod actuators powered by roller screws that can meet the requirements of these high force applications.

Posted by Tolomatic on November 14, 2017

High force linear actuators: How to convert from hydraulics to electric

For high force linear actuator applications, machine designers often first look to hydraulic cylinders. For good reason, too – hydraulic cylinders can be a bargain to purchase, delivering high force at a low cost per unit of force.  Plus, they’re rugged and well understood. But there’s another technology to consider. Electric linear actuators are available with high force capacities.  These actuators are more flexible, precise and reliable than their hydraulic counterparts.

Posted by Tolomatic on October 31, 2017

Electric high speed linear actuator reduces conveyor’s TCO

Higher production speeds usually translate into higher output volumes – a good thing in manufacturing. At least it’s good if product quality stays high and operating costs remain in line.  Machine designers are on the look-out for high speed linear actuators and other devices that can streamline processes.  But those high-speed solutions need to be reasonably priced and efficient to use.